210 Cav No problem, for the anti slip I first under coat with a mix of CAREFULLY, appleied white glue and water, which I keep awat from all the working hinges, exhaust outlets etc. This then receives a coating of...You got it anti slip!! This is available from sort of specialisd chemical/casting outlets, however, baking soda is a good alternative. This is added via a tea-strainer, and applied in a very fne coat, set aside and allowed to dry. Sand is a little heavy granular wise, but will do in a pinch (not of salt!). This can easily be overdone so it's best to underapply and return, than the opposite. I hope this is of some use. If I can be of help in any other way do let me know.

Jacko

Rob, both Royal Models and Airwaves kits can be had at GreatModels.com.
Note: both are listed as special orders. Royal Models kit states for use with the MkIII. Airwaves states use for both Mk II and III.

Also, Discount Models lists the Royal Models kit on their site: http://www.discountmodels.com/royal_model_page_5.htm

Thanks Ken, I sent an order for one (and a Model Point ASU-57 barrel, $6 cheaper than at my local store). I figure if it can be used on a Mk3, it'll probably fit on a Mk1 or 2. All they basically are are balls on chains.

Rob, I have heard that white metal ball and chain armor is pretty hard to work with. Besides, the feedback I've gathered from modelers when I wanted to build b&c armor is that white metal sets just don't look right on the model as the chain is completely flat...
The one thing you could try is to scratchbuild your ball and chain armor. Just use a very fine chain and some balls made of putty. It is tedious work, but I guess it would look more realistic than comercial sets available...

Mario M.

Okay, I am the dummy here. Just what does a ball and chain do on a Merkava?
thanks
DJ

The balls hang off of chains suspended from the bottom of the bustle rack. They supposedly cause RPGs and anti-tank missiles to go off prior to hitting the "trap shot" area between the underside of the turret rear and the top of the back deck. Merkavas store infantrymen down there, the engine is up front.